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Chapter 5. Useful Tools and References

VMware has traditionally been configured and managed through the
vCenter client. However, there are many tools that can manage and provide
useful information via the Command Line Interface provided on the ESXI
server. In this chapter, we’ll examine some important command-line utilities
that will aid you in monitoring and configuring your ESXI server, and we’ll
take a look at general best practices for setting up services that will be
crucial for your ESXI server.

5.1. Entering Maintenance Mode via the Command Line

Problem

You are unable to access your vCenter server to initiate
the maintenance mode command inside the vCenter. This can occur if there
is a network outage, database corruption, or failed hardware. The method
shown here will allow you to put the ESXi Host in maintenance mode and
will allow for a safe shutdown if needed.

Solution

This command is not supported as of ESXi 5.0 in the esxshell and will require an
additional installation on a Windows Server to access the vCLI Toolkit.
Putting ESXi hosts in maintenance mode should be completed inside the
vCenter if possible.